New name for Vanier Catholic Secondary School

Dear families,

Today we are excited to share a new name for your school. Together with the school council, we are pleased to announce “St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Secondary School” as the new name for Vanier Catholic Secondary School.

This name was picked after accepting suggestions from students and families. The name “St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Secondary School” was chosen because it encompasses the mission and values of the school community. The dedication to St. Francis embodies the school’s focus on Catholic faith, respect for the land, animals, and natural resources, and social, economic, and environmental justice.

St. Francis of Assisi is a canonized saint. He was born in 1181 and died in 1226. He is the patron saint of the natural environment and animals, and a champion for interfaith dialogue, particularly with Islam, which is more relevant now than ever.

Pope Francis (who chose to be named after St. Francis of Assisi) has always exemplified a renewed focus of serving those “on the margins” and social, economic, and environmental justice. This is something the school promotes and encourages on a daily basis.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this renaming process. There will be more details to share at the beginning of the next school year.

Have a great summer!

Sincerely,

Ryan Sikkes
​
ADM, Schools and Student Services
Department of Education